Homonyms

Topic – 7

HOMONYMS

INTRODUCTION

There are a large number of words in English Language that cause a lot of confusion to its users die to their similarity of sound (they sound alike), or similarity of spelling (spelt alike), or similarity in appearance.

A small number of words pose a problem because the past tense of one verb has the same spelling as the present tense or infinitive form of another.

Technically, words having the same pronunciation or similar pronunciation but different meanings, origins, or spelling are called 'Homophones' e.g. know and no; knot and not.

When two or more words have the same spelling but different meanings and origins (may have different pronunciation) they are called 'Homographs'.

Examples

1. bow (meaning: move one's head downwards)

Use: He bowed low to the assembled crowed.

2. bow (meaning: weapon used for shooting arrows)

Use: He was armed with a bow and arrow.

Like-wise when two or more words may have the same spelling or pronunciation but different meanings and origins they are called 'Homonyms' e.g. the word can means be able to, and it also means to put something in a container. In fact, the word homonym is used as an umbrella term encompassing homophones, homographs and homonyms.

Here is a list of homonyms commonly confused by non-native speakers of English. Learn these words carefully for their correct meanings and use as it will greatly help you to attempt the questions on both vocabulary and Reading Comprehension.

Practice Exercises

1. Make sentences using the following words to bring out their different meanings: